Quantitation of left ventricular anatomy and function by ultrafast CT.

Ultrafast computed tomographic (CT) scanning provides cross-sectional millisecond tomography, similar in many ways to cineangiography. The technique, which combines digital imaging and high resolution without the need for cardiac catheterization, is rapidly being validated. Fifty millisecond scans at rates of 34/second allow quantitation of left ventricular function using typical calculations including global and regional ejection fraction but ultrafast CT also has the potential for providing unique data concerning regional wall thickening, mass, and even regional myocardial perfusion. Furthermore, interventional studies with exercise and pharmacological agents have commenced and are currently being evaluated.